As I stood at my kitchen counter, a flurry of enticing aromas filled the air, hinting at a culinary adventure waiting to unfold. This Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crunchy Slaw is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that transports you straight to a bustling street market. What’s more, this quick and customizable recipe caters to every palate, making it the perfect crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings. With the option for gluten-free and vegan adaptations, you can delight in a dish that suits your dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. Ready to discover how easy it is to make this delightful sandwich that will leave your guests craving more? Let’s dive in! Why is this sandwich a must-try? Explosion of Flavor: This savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich offers an irresistible combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Customizable Options: Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer vegan alternatives, you can easily tailor this recipe to fit your dietary needs with substitutions like seitan or tempeh. Quick Preparation: Ideal for busy weeknights, this meal comes together in just a matter of minutes, giving you more time to enjoy with family and friends. Crispy, Crunchy Slaw: The fresh cabbage slaw adds a delightful crunch, balancing perfectly with the tender chicken, while bringing color and texture to your plate. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With its vibrant flavors and easy-to-assemble nature, you can be sure this sandwich will be a hit at any gathering, alongside dishes like sweet potato fries or Korean pickled vegetables for a complete meal. Savory Korean BBQ Sandwich Ingredients For the Chicken Marinade Chicken Thighs – Juicy protein base for the sandwich; substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option, though it may lose some tenderness. Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness and umami flavor; opt for low-sodium for a healthier take. Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a unique flavor twist. Honey – Enhances sweetness and moisture; use agave nectar for a vegan version. Gochujang – Delivers heat and depth; reduce quantity for a milder taste or switch to sriracha if preferred. Rice Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the flavors; apple cider vinegar works well as an alternative. Sesame Oil – Provides richness and a nutty aroma; be cautious for those with sesame allergies. Garlic (minced) and Ginger (grated) – Fresh aromatics that elevate the marinade’s profile; fresh versions yield the best flavor. Sesame Seeds – Optional garnish for crunch and visual appeal, enhancing the overall look of the savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich. For the Cabbage Slaw Green & Red Cabbage – Offers crunch and vibrant color; feel free to use more green cabbage if desired. Carrot – Adds sweetness and extra crunch; julienne for an elegant look or grate for softness. Mayonnaise – Creamy dressing base; vegan mayo can easily substitute for a plant-based version. Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavors; adjust to taste. For Assembly Brioche or Potato Buns – Soft sandwich holders; opt for gluten-free varieties if needed. Butter – Used for toasting buns, adding flavor and a golden color; can be omitted for dairy-free options. Enjoy the delicious journey of making this Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crunchy Slaw, perfect for any occasion! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crunchy Slaw Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re coated evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to maximize flavor absorption. Step 2: Prepare the Slaw While the chicken marinates, prepare the slaw by combining shredded green and red cabbage with julienned carrots in a large bowl. In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, a splash of rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to create a creamy dressing. Drizzle it over the cabbage mixture and toss well, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble your savory Korean BBQ chicken sandwich. Step 3: Cook the Chicken Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator, letting excess marinade drip off. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s nicely browned and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly for the sandwich. Step 4: Toast the Buns While the chicken is resting, butter the cut sides of your brioche or potato buns. Place the buns, buttered side down, in the hot skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, or until they have a beautiful golden-brown color. This step enhances flavor and prevents sogginess when filling them with the savory BBQ chicken and slaw. Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich To assemble your savory Korean BBQ chicken sandwich, place a layer of sliced chicken on the bottom half of each toasted bun. If desired, drizzle with additional BBQ sauce for extra flavor. Pile on the crunchy slaw generously, then top with the other half of the bun. Serve the sandwiches immediately for the best taste experience, and savor the delightful flavors! Expert Tips for Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Perfect Marinating: Aim for at least one hour of marinating time to infuse the chicken with the most flavor; overnight is even better for a deeper taste. Non-Stick Success: Preheat your skillet well; if the chicken sticks, it probably wasn’t hot enough—this ensures a perfect char on your savory Korean BBQ chicken. Balance the Slaw: Don’t skimp on the slaw dressing; a well-balanced slaw elevates the sandwich’s crunch and flavor, complementing the savory BBQ chicken beautifully. Toasting Technique: Always toast your buns! It enhances their flavor and adds a welcomed texture, keeping them from getting soggy with the juicy chicken and slaw. Experiment with Variations: Feel free to swap in different proteins like seitan or tempeh for a vegan adaptation, keeping the savory Korean BBQ flavors intact! Storage Tips for Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Fridge: Keep leftover chicken and slaw in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent soggy buns. Freezer: Marinated chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months; ensure it’s well-wrapped in foil or a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before cooking. Reheating: To reheat leftover chicken, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact. Serving Freshness: For the best taste, assemble the sandwich just before serving to enjoy that crispy, crunchy texture alongside the tender, flavorful chicken. What to Serve with Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crunchy Slaw Looking to create a delightful dining experience that perfectly complements the bold flavors of your sandwich? Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries provide a delicious contrast to the savory chicken. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal. Asian Noodle Salad: A tossed blend of fresh vegetables and noodles drizzled with sesame dressing adds a refreshing crunch. This light side dish balances the richness of the sandwich. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Juicy, charred corn kissed with butter brings a summery vibe to your table. Its sweetness and smoky flavor pair beautifully with the savory elements of the chicken. Korean Pickled Vegetables: These tangy, colorful bites cut through the richness of the sandwich, adding dimension to each bite. Their sharpness enhances the overall flavor experience while keeping things bright and vibrant. Cucumber Salad: A crisp, refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil provides an easy way to incorporate fresh greens. Its crunch mirrors the slaw, making it a delightful accompaniment. Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat pairs beautifully with the savory sandwich. The creamy coconut rice and ripe mango create a deliciously indulgent way to end your meal. Make Ahead Options These Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwiches with Crunchy Slaw are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to deepen the flavors (just be sure to cover it well to prevent any browning). The crunchy slaw can also be prepared ahead; simply combine and refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just cook the marinated chicken, toast the buns, and assemble the sandwich for a quick meal that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. This way, you can enjoy all the deliciousness without the last-minute stress! Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Variations Feel free to get creative with your sandwich—to make it truly yours! Vegan Delight: Replace chicken with seitan or tempeh for a hearty vegan version that’s just as satisfying. Fresh Crunch: Add sliced cucumbers or pickled jalapeños for an extra layer of crunch. The pickled elements bring a tangy contrast that brightens every bite. Bun Variety: Use ciabatta or whole grain buns for a unique twist; they both add distinct flavors while holding up well to the filling. Fruity Slaw: Toss in diced apples or mango for a surprising sweetness that complements the savory chicken beautifully. It’s a delightful way to balance the flavors. Herb Infusion: Fold in fresh herbs like cilantro or mint into the slaw for enhanced aroma and freshness; these add a vibrant touch that elevates the sandwich. Spicy Kick: Incorporate extra gochujang or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce for those who love spice. It ignites the sandwich with an exciting heat. Gluten-Free Swap: Choose gluten-free buns and soy sauce to cater to gluten-sensitive diners while keeping all the flavor intact. Everyone will enjoy this delicious meal! Creamy Avocado: Layer on slices of avocado for a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy slaw and juicy chicken. It’s an indulgent touch that takes it to the next level. Why not serve your savory Korean BBQ chicken with some sweet potato fries or a refreshing Asian noodle salad for a complete meal? For another delicious option, check out these Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce that are sure to impress your family! Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crunchy Slaw Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for this recipe? Using chicken thighs is ideal for this Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich because they remain juicy and tender during cooking. However, you can substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option; just be aware that they might turn out slightly drier. How should I store leftovers? Store leftover chicken and slaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps both the chicken flavorful and the slaw crunchy, preventing the sandwich from getting soggy. Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Absolutely! You can freeze marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal it tightly. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before proceeding to cook. What should I do if my slaw is too watery? If you find your slaw is too watery after mixing, simply drain any excess liquid. To prevent this in the future, you can sprinkle a little salt on the shredded cabbage and let it sit for about 10 minutes before tossing it with the dressing. This draws out excess moisture and keeps your slaw crisp. Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, you can easily make this Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich gluten-free! Just use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your buns are gluten-free as well. There are many great alternatives available in stores today. How can I customize the slaw for added flavor? Feel free to experiment with your slaw! You can add sliced cucumbers, diced apples, or even some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. For extra crunch, consider tossing in some roasted peanuts or sunflower seeds. Enjoy getting creative to find your perfect flavor balance! Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crunchy Slaw Delight This Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crunchy Slaw is a delightful meal that brings a burst of flavors to any gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsMarinating Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 sandwichesCourse: LunchCuisine: KoreanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Marinade1 pound Chicken Thighs Juicy protein base for the sandwich1/4 cup Soy Sauce Opt for low-sodium for a healthier take1/4 cup Brown Sugar Can be replaced with coconut sugar2 tablespoons Honey Use agave nectar for a vegan version1 tablespoon Gochujang Deliver heat and depth2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Apple cider vinegar works as an alternative1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Be cautious for those with sesame allergies2 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh aromatics that elevate the flavor1 tablespoon Ginger (grated) Fresh versions yield the best flavor1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Optional garnish for crunchFor the Cabbage Slaw2 cups Green & Red Cabbage Offers crunch and vibrant color1 medium Carrot Julienne for an elegant look1/2 cup Mayonnaise Vegan mayo can substitute1/2 teaspoon Salt Essential seasoning1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential seasoningFor Assembly4 buns Brioche or Potato Buns Opt for gluten-free if needed2 tablespoons Butter Can be omitted for dairy-free options Equipment Skilletmixing bowlwhiskGrill Pan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded green and red cabbage with the julienned carrot. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, a splash of rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour over the cabbage mixture and toss. Chill until ready.Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Remove marinated chicken, let excess marinade drip off, and cook for approximately 6–7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.Spread butter on the cut sides of the buns. Toast them cut-side down in the skillet for about 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp.Assemble the sandwich by laying sliced chicken on the bottom half of each bun, drizzling with BBQ sauce if desired, and topping with crunchy slaw. Place the other half of the bun on top and serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Marinated chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
